Indoor Ecosystem Dynamics and Interactions

The video explores how raccoons and other wildlife thrive in urban micro habitats, particularly in small areas like backyards. Boone Smith investigates the micro habitats inside homes, revealing a complex indoor food chain. Dust mites, carpet beetles, and other insects feed on human debris, while spiders and lizards prey on these insects. The presence of humans creates these micro worlds, attracting wildlife even in urban settings.

What is the minimum area raccoons need to survive in urban settings?

• One square block

• Three square blocks

• Five square blocks

• Ten square blocks

What does Boone Smith specialize in studying?

• Micro habitats

• Marine ecosystems

• Desert wildlife

• Large animal migrations

What forms the foundation of the indoor food chain?

• Furniture

• Pets

• Humans

• Plants

How much dead skin can dust mites consume in a year?

• One pound

• Three pounds

• Five pounds

• Seven pounds

What percentage of households have carpet beetles?

• 70%

• 50%

• 90%

• 100%

What is a common allergen found in homes?

• Pet hair

• Mite feces

• Mold

• Pollen

What do spiders in homes typically eat?

• Human food

• Other insects

• Dust

• Plants

What is a common predator of spiders in the indoor ecosystem?

• Cats

• Mice

• Lizards

• Birds

What larger animal might be found in the indoor food chain?

• Rabbit

• Raccoon

• Copperhead snake

• Squirrel

What happens when humans create a micro world indoors?

• It becomes uninhabitable

• The wild moves in

• It becomes sterile

• It attracts only insects